Kicking off the start of the University of Montevallo’s homecoming festivities, the annual College Night Mixer was earlier this month, introducing tons of new people into one of Montevallo’s most sacred traditions. 

While the official College Night season doesn’t begin until January, every year both the Purples and Golds come together to host the College Night Mixer. The event focuses on kicking off the start of work for the College Night season, celebrating tradition and gathering interest in participation.  

Lining the long hallway of the Student Activity Center, both sides chatted with new and old faces alike in the spirit of College Night. Members of each side represented the many facets of College Night and recruited for the upcoming season. 

“The energy was really good,” said Audrey Paige Robinson, one of the 2026 Purple Side co-leaders. “I think everyone’s just ready to get the season started.” 

The leaders of each side agreed they wanted to kick off the season with a collaborative start and to stray away from the tension that has been brought up in the past. 

“We just kind of went in with ‘we’re just going to be open to everybody,’” said Madison Smith, one of the 2026 Gold Side Co-Leaders. “And really try to do what’s best for the majority of College Night. Not just what’s best for Gold Side or what’s best for Purple Side.” 

The College Night Mixer can be a very overwhelming experience, particularly for freshmen, so it was important to maintain a relaxed and easygoing environment, according to Smith. 

“I use the phrase ‘play for your side, not your pride,’” said D’Mar Taront-Milton, the other Purple Side co-leader. “You can tell when someone was playing with love.” 

“Last year D’Mar said the word was ‘grace,’ and this year we’ve been saying the word is ‘love,’” said Robinson.  

While the competition of College Night is fun, it was more important to create an environment for the mixer that was lighthearted, said Robinson. “You play a game because you love it.”  

“It kind of seemed more like a genuine collaboration amongst both sides to really create a space that feels comfortable and interactive and enjoyable.” said Smith. 

The College Night Mixer was enjoyed by both sides alike and set forth a mutual positive tone for College Night festivities to come next semester. 

Anyone interested in keeping up with College Night events, future tryouts, or to stay up to date about UM’s most valued tradition can follow @purplevictory for Purple Side news and @goldvictorygv for Gold Side news on Instagram.